ECI issues revised schedule for Special Electoral roll revision across 12 states

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday issued a revised schedule for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls across 12 States and Union Territories, setting January 1, 2026 as the qualifying date for new electors. The revised timeline supersedes the Commission’s earlier order issued on October 27, 2025.

The updated directive, sent to the Chief Electoral Officers of the concerned states and UTs, aims to strengthen the accuracy of voter lists ahead of major electoral cycles in 2026. The regions covered under this revised SIR include Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

According to the new schedule, the enumeration period and rationalisation or re-arrangement of polling stations must be completed by December 11, 2025. This will be followed by updation of control tables and preparation of draft rolls between December 12 and December 15, 2025.

The draft electoral roll will be published on December 16, 2025, marking the beginning of the public engagement phase, during which voters can verify details and suggest corrections. The filing of claims and objections will be open from December 16, 2025, to January 15, 2026.

Officials said the revised schedule is intended to ensure comprehensive voter verification and smoother preparation of accurate electoral rolls. The intensive revision is especially crucial for states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, which witness higher voter movement and frequent additions to the electorate.

With the publication of the final electoral roll expected before the 2026 election cycle begins, the Commission has urged stakeholders and citizens to actively participate in the claims and objections window to ensure error-free entries.